Dear Friend,

Building real political power isn’t something you can do just in the few weeks before an election. It’s day-in, day-out work, 12 months a year.

More and more, AFSCME is partnering with grassroots organizations that are part of their community fabric. I recently visited Milwaukee where I talked to activists with a group called Black Leaders Organizing for Communities. BLOC is all about making real change in neighborhoods that have too often been denied a seat at the table.

Watch this video and learn more about BLOC’s inspiring, innovative work.

At BLOC, they knock on doors every day. They’re not just asking for people’s vote; they’re asking about people’s lives. They’re having deep, authentic conversations. And the canvassers – BLOC calls them “ambassadors” – aren’t out-of-state volunteers. They live in the places where they’re organizing, and they have experienced many of the same challenges.

BLOC has emerged as a force in Milwaukee. They got real results in 2018, helping bounce the nation’s most anti-worker politician, Scott Walker, out of office. They will make a huge difference in the high-stakes 2020 elections. And most importantly, they are giving themselves a powerful voice in the decisions that affect their community.

You have to check out this video. You’ll be moved by these activists and their commitment to change.

This Black History Month, in addition to looking back at the past, let’s answer a call to action to strengthen our communities today and tomorrow.

In solidarity,

Lee Saunders

AFSCME President